Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip
Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - See the Sights of Wakanda in Atlanta, Georgia
Step into the world of Wakanda in Atlanta, Georgia. This vibrant city was transformed into the fictional African nation of Wakanda for the 2018 blockbuster Black Panther. Though the movie magic has disappeared, you can still explore many of the real-world filming locations.
Start your Wakanda tour at the High Museum of Art. This striking white building served as the Wakanda Outreach Center in the film. Walk the same steps as T’Challa and Okoye, gazing up at the museum’s magnificent staircase. Indoors, you’ll find a vast collection of artwork from around the world. Be sure to check out the exhibits on African art and the American South to immerse yourself in the region’s cultural heritage.
Next, head just north of downtown to the Flats at Ponce City Market. This adaptive reuse complex was the site of a vital Black Panther scene: the underground fight between T’Challa and Killmonger. Though it looked like a bus depot onscreen, it’s actually a vibrant food hall filled with stalls and eateries. Grab a bite while picturing the actors battling it out in this very spot.
Another pivotal filming location is the Atlanta City Hall rotunda. Here, T’Challa addressed the United Nations after his father’s death. Snap some photos of the soaring domed ceiling and marble interiors, just as the cast and crew did. Fun fact: the UN scenes were actually filmed on a set replica, but the rotunda provided exterior shots.
No Black Panther tour is complete without a trip to the Center for Civil and Human Rights. This inspiring museum promotes greater understanding of civil rights in the United States and worldwide. Browse the exhibits to deepen your knowledge of African culture and the struggles faced both in America and abroad. It’s no wonder this location was chosen as the Wakanda Outreach Center.
Finally, head over to the Peter Street Portfolio apartments in Cascade Heights. Marvel fans will instantly recognize this as the stylish complex where T’Challa and Nakia kissed. The ultramodern façade and interior courtyard appeared in several scenes. Not far away lies the lake where T’challa was presumed dead after fighting Killmonger. Though not accessible, it provides a scenic backdrop.
What else is in this post?
- Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - See the Sights of Wakanda in Atlanta, Georgia
- Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Channel Your Inner Anthropologist in Tanzania
- Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Get Your Fill of Crawfish in New Orleans, Louisiana
- Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Experience the Wilderness of Jasper National Park, Alberta
- Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Tour the Scottish Highlands and Relive Outlander
- Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Wander the Streets of Paris with Emily in Paris
- Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Marvel at Seoul's Cityscape and Futuristic Buildings
- Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Escape to a Tropical Paradise Like Love Island's Villa
Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Channel Your Inner Anthropologist in Tanzania
The call of the wild beckons in Tanzania. This East African nation offers a treasure trove of experiences for aspiring anthropologists and adventure-seekers. From archaeological wonders to fascinating cultural encounters, Tanzania provides endless opportunities to study humankind in all its diversity. Heed the siren song of discovery and book your tickets today.
At the top of every must-see list is Tanzania’s crowning gem: the Serengeti. This vast grassland ecosystem provides a window into human evolution and migration patterns. Retrace our ancestors’ footsteps as you explore the endless savanna, keeping watch for big cats, hippos, zebras and more. The natural beauty and biological diversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site will leave you in awe.
For a sobering look at human impact, visit Olduvai Gorge, where remains of prehistoric peoples were first discovered. See ancient stone tools and fossilized animal bones emerge from the rocky landscape, evidence of the earliest human technology. Stand in the footsteps of legendary archaeologists like Louis and Mary Leakey as you ponder the passage of time.
At Engaruka, rediscover a lost medieval civilization in the ruins of an ingenious irrigation system. Meander between the sun-baked stone walls and wonder at this agricultural society that thrived between the 16th and 19th centuries, then mysteriously vanished. What secrets do these ruins still hold?
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai, an indigenous pastoral tribe. Share in their daily life and rituals to gain profound insights into this tight-knit community. With an open heart and mind, you’ll come to appreciate their ancient wisdom and humility in the face of modernization.
Looking for some hands-on learning? Dig into the past at Isimila, where Acheulean stone tools dating back hundreds of thousands of years have been unearthed. Get your bearings at the on-site museum, then try your hand at archaeological excavation, who knows what treasures you might uncover?
Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Get Your Fill of Crawfish in New Orleans, Louisiana
You haven’t experienced true NOLA culture till you’ve gotten down and dirty with a mountain of boiled crawfish. These freshwater crustaceans are synonymous with Louisiana, and no trip to the Big Easy is complete without feasting on their sweet, tender meat.
The crawfish season runs from late winter through early summer, with peak harvesting happening in the spring. During these months, you’ll find crawfish on the menu at restaurants all over town, from hole-in-the-wall joints to upscale eateries. Prices range from around $4/lb at local seafood markets to $15/lb or more at some restaurants. Either way, you’re looking at one messy, finger-licking-good experience.
Traditionally, crawfish are boiled whole in a classic Creole spice blend and served in piles on newspaper-covered tables. Locals and tourists alike roll up their sleeves, twist off the tails, and suck the richness right out of the head. The meat is sweet and reminiscent of lobster, with just a hint of muddy pond that adds an earthy depth.
Armed with some plastic gloves, a cold beer, and plenty of napkins, attack that crawfish heap familystyle at joints like Bevi Seafood Co. or Bayou Boil Seafood. Alternately, try some NOLA spins on crawfish like chargrilled crawfish salsa at Seither’s Seafood or crawfish beignets at Café Amelie. At high-end eateries like GW Fins, they’ll remove the shells so you can savor NOLA’s favorite crustacean in refined dishes like crawfish risotto or étouffée.
Don’t pass up the iconic crawfish boil experience at the many festivals celebrating this specialty. Munch mudbugs by the pound at the French Quarter Festival in April or Louisiana Crawfish Festival in May. Or check out smaller community boils like the Spring Lake Crawfish Boil or Gretna Heritage Fest Crawfish Cook-Off.
Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Experience the Wilderness of Jasper National Park, Alberta
Tucked away in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park awaits adventurers who want to lose themselves in alpine wilderness. As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper offers over 4,200 square miles of untouched natural beauty. Snow-capped mountains, crystal clear lakes, dense forests and abundant wildlife come together to create a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From backpacking and camping to paddling and climbing, the park provides endless opportunities to challenge yourself amid stunning scenery.
One of the best ways to experience Jasper is by hiking or backpacking through its extensive network of trails. There are options suitable for every skill level, ranging from short nature paths to multi-day backcountry treks. For stunning vistas, head to the Skyline Trail, where alpine meadows meet jagged ridges. To explore glacier-carved valleys, hike the challenging Rockwall Trail. Along the way, watch for elk, caribou, bears and bighorn sheep. Backcountry campsites let you immerse yourself in the solitude of the wilderness at night.
Jasper also offers world-class paddling along its many crystal clear lakes and rivers. Canoe or kayak on Maligne Lake, the second largest glacial lake in the world. Gaze up at the surrounding snow-dusted peaks as you glide across this magical waterway. For whitewater thrills, grab your raft and tackle the class II-IV rapids of the Athabasca River. Guided tours make it easy to navigate the most intense sections of these glacier-fed waters.
Climbers from across the globe flock to Jasper to scale its sheer rock faces. Conquer legendary peaks like Mount Edith Cavell, known for its technical ice climbs. The stunning east face of Mount Kerkeslin provides mixed climbing amid a dramatic cirque carved by ancient glaciers. There's also plenty of options for sport climbing at crags like Morro Rock. Whether you're a seasoned alpinist or new to climbing, Jasper delivers endless challenge.
Of course, it's just as glorious to experience Jasper at your own pace. Drive the scenic Icefields Parkway, stopping to admire glassy Peyto Lake and the towering Athabasca Glacier along the way. Soak in mineral-rich Miette Hot Springs after a day of hiking. Sign up for a winter snowshoe tour and marvel at Jasper's mountains transformed into a frosted wonderland. However you choose to explore, Jasper's majestic wilderness will leave you in awe.
Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Tour the Scottish Highlands and Relive Outlander
Step into the passionate world of Outlander amid the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. This cult fantasy series has captivated viewers with its time-traveling love story set in 18th century Scotland. Fans can recreate scenes from the show by exploring the real Scottish locations that serve as backdrops. Prepare for romance and adventure as you journey through cinematic glens, crumbling castles, and rolling moors.
Begin your Outlander tour in the capital city of Edinburgh. Cobblestone streets and medieval architecture set the scene as you retrace Claire’s steps along the Royal Mile. Nearby lies Dean Village, transformed into a 1940s film set for Season 2. Here, Claire said goodbye to Frank before mysteriously traveling back to the 1700s.
Then venture into the Highlands along the A82 road. This stunning route winds past lochs and soaring peaks straight from the opening credits. Stop at Doune Castle, which stood in for Castle Leoch in Season 1. Climb the tower for panoramic views Jamie and Claire would have enjoyed. Down the road lies Callander, a quaint village where you can grab a pint at the same pub where Gellis first told Claire she was a witch.
Further north, explore the clan seat of the Frasers at Beauly Priory. These evocative ruins appear when Jamie returns home to Scotland after years in exile. Nearby Culloden Battlefield is another pivotal Outlander site. Walk the somber moor where Jamie and Claire witnessed the brutal battle that changed the course of Scotland’s history.
No trip is complete without visiting Falkland, the setting for 1940s Inverness. Meander down centuries-old alleys that haven't changed since filming wrapped. Just outside town, check out the magical standing stones that thrust Claire back through time. Hike up to these ancient monoliths and touch them, if you dare!
Venture into the Highlands wilderness to Loch Rannoch, where Jamie taught Claire to fish and hunt. This tranquil loch is surrounded by pine forests straight from the pages of the novel. Its shores also served as a refugee camp for Jamie’s clan in Season 1.
Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Wander the Streets of Paris with Emily in Paris
Paris dazzles with its belle époque boulevards, charming cafés, and picturesque views, but seeing the City of Light through the eyes of Emily Cooper makes it shine even brighter. This eager American's adventures in Paris have enchanted viewers, making the most romantic city in the world look more irresistible than ever.
Follow in Emily's fashionable footsteps as you stroll along the storied streets of the City of Love. Start where Emily's journey began at the neoclassical Pont Alexandre III bridge. Gaze up at the glorious golden statues and ironwork that dazzled Emily on her first ride into Paris. Nearby, the Grand Palais’s exhibit hall hosted Emily’s thrilling fashion show. This historic glass-domed building is a showstopper, so snap some photos just like Emily did.
Meander through the Place de la Concorde, the grand public square facing the Tuileries Garden. Emily raced through this plaza trying to deliver paperwork to her boss Sylvie. The vintage carousel she rode spins here daily, inviting you to hop aboard. Don't miss the opulent Hôtel de Crillon next door - Emily attended an event at this palace turned luxury hotel. Its long history and chandeliered interiors exude Parisian prestige.
Stroll the charming streets of medieval Île de la Cité and gaze up at the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, just as Emily did. She watched in horror as the spire collapsed in a devastating fire. Though the damaged interior remains closed, the church still awes from outside. Cross the Seine to the Latin Quarter and bookshop-lined Rue de la Huchette. This adorable street was transformed into a charming Christmas market for the show.
Of course, retrace Emily's steps along the bustling Champs-Élysées. She snapped selfies with the Arc de Triomphe before browsing luxury labels on this world-famous avenue. Stop for sweets at Ladurée, known for its decadent pastel-hued macarons. This 19th-century tearoom dazzled Emily with its elegance. Finish your own Paris food tour with wine and cheese at a classic bistro – Emily's favorite way to end a night out.
Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Marvel at Seoul's Cityscape and Futuristic Buildings
Seoul dazzles visitors with its blend of modern skyscrapers, neon city lights, and sweeping mountain views. While traces of historic palaces and temples remain, much of Seoul has embraced a futuristic vision defined by bold architecture and cutting-edge technology. Those who want to experience the future today should add this dynamic metropolis to their Asia itineraries.
Towering glass high-rises pierce the sky in commercial districts like Gangnam and Yeouido. Ride the elevator up Seoul Tower or one of the many observation decks for bird's-eye panoramas. Seoul's glittering cityscape competes with Hong Kong's and Tokyo's in scale and ambition. Architectural icons like the curvy Dongdaemun Design Plaza and plant-covered Paradise City complex reveal daring artistic visions. These unconventional buildings prove Seoul is Asia's new hotspot for experimental architecture.
Yet historic tradition still thrives alongside modernity, especially at Gyeongbokgung Palace. This regal 600-year-old complex anchors bustling central Seoul with tranquil gardens and ornate pavilions. Nearby, the meandering alleys of Bukchon Hanok Village transport you centuries back in time with their preservation of traditional Korean hanok houses.
Venture to Digital Media City, a creative cluster dubbed Seoul's very own Silicon Valley. This youthful district embraces digital technology from robot cafes to hologram concerts. Visit the flaship Samsung D'Light store or LG Science Park to glimpse innovations shaping the future. Of course, no discussion of Seoul's tech obsesssion is complete without visiting Yongsan Electronics Market. This tech mecca houses thousands of electronics shops spread over multiple floors. It's a gadget-lover's paradise.
Seoul even flaunts its futuristic style after dark when neon signs flicker alight. Vibrant shopping districts like Myeongdong and Hongdae use animated signage to mesmerizing effect. The Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain takes things to another level with over 10,000 LED nozzles shooting water in sync with a captivating light show. For more Blade Runner-esque cityscapes, cross the river to Yeouido after sunset. This finance hub eerily empties out at night, leaving its glitzy skyscrapers to glow against inky black skies.
Lights, Camera, Vacation! Let the Best TV Shows and Movies of 2023 Guide Your Next Trip - Escape to a Tropical Paradise Like Love Island's Villa
Craving your own taste of paradise à la Love Island? This smash hit reality series has viewers swooning over the show’s sensational villa set amid Mallorca’s stunning coastline. Though the actual estate is privately owned, you can easily recreate the magic at one of Spain’s many breathtaking beach resorts. Indulge in luxury living and steamy romance against a backdrop of swaying palms and sunny Mediterranean shores.
For adults-only escapism, head to the swanky Sisu Boutique Hotel in Puerto Pollensa. Its sleek infinity pool practically spills into the azure Bay of Pollensa, while private cabanas with heavenly daybeds channel the show’s fire pit scenes. Serene garden grounds and contemporary rooms with soaking tubs add to the sexy ambiance. Enjoy gourmet Mediterranean meals overlooking the sea for the full Love Island experience.
Prefer party vibes? The massive Hard Rock Hotel in Tenerife boasts two glittering pools surrounded by tropical gardens, plus a rockin’ main pool with underwater music – perfect for socializing and spotting hotties. When you’re ready for romance, retreat to the adults-only zone or your stylish suite with round beds and outdoor hot tubs built for two. VIP amenities like express restaurant access and poolside waiter service maximize your luxury.
For affordable decadence, Magaluf’s BH Mallorca delivers sophistication beyond its spring break reputation. Unwind in a private garden cabana or on your room’s sun terrace as you take in vistas of lush landscaping dotted with inviting pools. Book a pampering spa massage, then enjoy global eats from themed restaurants. With daily DJs and bars for perfect sunset cocktails every night, you can live it up free of crowds and chaos.
If you prefer switching villas like the Islanders, stay at Ikos Resorts. These five-star all-inclusive oases offer ultra-chic accommodations, beachfront locations, and unlimited gourmet dining. Spain options include the dazzling Ikos Andalusia on Costa del Sol, with Andalusian-style rooms boasting hot tubs and private patios. Ikos Dassia in Corfu entices with its hillside setting overlooking the stunning Ionian Sea. Wherever you choose, you’ll enjoy privileged pampering worthy of reality TV royalty.